Can you take the bar exam without going to law school?

A:

Quick Answer

Some states allow a path to take the bar exam and become an attorney without law school. According to The State Bar of California, qualifying experience and practice in the law serves as a substitute for law school.

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Each state sets the requirements to take the bar exam, according to the American Bar Association. California allows applicants with four years of supervised experience to sit for the bar exam, according to The State Bar of California. Washington allows an alternate program through a four-year clerkship with a qualifying attorney or judge, according to the Washington State Bar Association. Those who wish to take the bar exam must also meet the same character requirements as those who attend law school.